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A Gym's Search for the Next Zumba

In Hunt for a Hit Class, Crunch Turns to Dutch Speedskaters, Introduces Transformer With Disq

These days, anyone can train like an elite athlete with workouts like Crossfit and at-home options such as P90X. That's why gyms are going above and beyond to develop high-intensity fitness classes that can pack a punch and attract both women and men.

Gyms know the delicate mix of elements needed for a runaway hit class: It must pique interest with an intriguing back story, draw people in with a winning personality and keep them coming back with a bit of mystery. And it helps to appeal to men.

But knowing which classes will endure is much harder. Executives at the Crunch gym chain are betting the next blockbuster will come from a sport their typical member likely knows nothing...